Full Day Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour – Day Trip From Ottawa & Gatineau

Thinking about a day trip that combines beautiful scenery, tasty local drinks, and a bit of history? This Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour from Ottawa and Gatineau promises just that. It’s a highly-rated experience—boasting a perfect 5-star rating from those who’ve taken it—with many travelers recommending it wholeheartedly. It’s a solid choice if you’re eager to enjoy the region’s high-quality wines, cider, and interesting local stories without the hassle of driving yourself.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances relaxation and discovery. You’ll get to sit back and enjoy tastings at three different stops, all while learning about the area from knowledgeable guides. Plus, the inclusion of a tasty lunch and snacks makes it feel like a full, satisfying experience rather than just a series of quick stops. A notable perk is the round-trip transfers—no need to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or finding parking, which can take away from the fun.

Of course, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour is about tastings and sightseeing rather than a full meal — so if you’re particularly hungry, you might want to bring some extra snacks or plan to eat beforehand. Also, the tour is suited for most travelers, but it’s especially great for those who want a guided, relaxed day exploring Quebec’s scenic Pontiac region with a small group for more personal attention.

If you’re into local wines, cider, scenic drives, and engaging guides, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s especially suited for anyone looking to combine a bit of culture, nature, and gourmet tasting—without the stress of organizing it all on your own.

• Relaxed, guided experience with round-trip transportation from Ottawa and Gatineau.
• Multiple tastings of wines and ciders paired with snacks and a lunch.
• Small group size for personalized attention and engaging commentary.
• Learn about the region’s history through the stories shared by friendly guides.
• Scenic drives through beautiful Pontiac countryside.
• Good value considering the tastings and included meals.

This full-day tour is designed for those who want to soak up the local flavor without the hassle of planning or driving. It lasts roughly 7 hours, with convenient pickups from Ottawa or Gatineau, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the ride.

The Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

First Stop: Domaine de Pontiac Village

The journey begins at a family-run winery and vintage car museum. Here, you’ll enjoy three wine tastings, which set the tone for a relaxed and flavorful day. Visitors love the charm of this spot, mentioning the warm family atmosphere and the interesting combination of wines and vintage cars. The admission is included, so you get full access to the museum, adding a dash of local history to your experience. One reviewer appreciated that the guide made sure everyone learned about the region’s background, enriching the visit.

Second Stop: Little Red Wagon Winery

Next, it’s on to a rustic yet welcoming winery. Expect a tour of the winery followed by five tastings of wine, giving you a good variety to sample. This stop also features a delicious cheese and charcuterie board—a filling snack that complements the wines perfectly. Travelers frequently mention the welcoming owners and the extensive tastings, highlighting the value and quality of the wines. The guide makes it a point to share stories behind each wine, making the visit more engaging.

Third Stop: Cidrerie Coronation Hall

The final stop is a true highlight: a cider mill housed within a historic dance hall from the 1930s. Here, you’ll sample a variety of ciders—hard, hopped, and sweet—paired with apple pie or apple crumble. Many reviews call this cider mill “a hidden gem,” praising its charm and the quality of product. The cider tastings are complemented by the historical setting, making it a memorable finish to the day. The inclusion of sweet treats adds a comforting touch, and if you’re a fan of apple flavors, you’ll love this stop.

The Food and Tasting Experience

The tour’s lunch and snacks are thoughtfully included, making for a satisfying experience. The lunch features a charcuterie board, which many reviewers describe as “delicious and filling.” It’s a good balance—enough to stave off hunger without overshadowing the tastings. Plus, snacks like chips and candies are provided in the van, which many travelers appreciate, especially if they’re prone to getting hungry between stops.

Transportation and Group Size

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, especially on warmer days. The group size is kept to a maximum of 14 travelers, striking a balance between intimacy and social atmosphere. This smaller group means guides can give more personalized attention and share stories in more detail—something many guests find valuable. The pick-up and drop-off service from Ottawa and Gatineau simplifies the logistics, allowing you to relax from start to finish.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, highlighting their enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness. One review mentions a guide who was “very informative and fun,” making the whole experience more engaging. Others note how guides shared details about the region’s history and winery stories, adding depth to the tastings.

Value for Money

At $133.06 per person, this tour offers quite a bit for the price. The tastings across three locations, a full lunch, snacks, and the convenience of transportation all add up to a worthwhile experience. Several reviewers mentioned how this tour was “great value,” especially considering the quality of the products and the personalized service.

While most travelers rave about this experience, it’s worth noting that most tastings are served without a full meal. If you’re a big eater or planning to indulge in multiple drinks, bringing some extra snacks or a hearty breakfast beforehand might be a good idea. The tour is also weather-dependent—if the weather turns poor, the provider offers alternative dates or refunds, so check the forecast.

The small group size and guided format make this ideal for those who prefer an organized, relaxed day rather than a free-for-all at wineries. It’s suitable for most adults, especially those interested in local products and scenic drives, but not necessarily designed as a family or children’s activity.

This Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour is perfect if you’re looking for a laid-back, informative day with a focus on local drinks and scenery. It works well for wine enthusiasts and cider lovers eager to explore regional specialties, as well as those interested in learning about local history. The small group setting suits travelers who appreciate personal attention and engaging guides.

If you’re someone who enjoys a guided experience that combines tastings, stories, and scenic views without the stress of planning, this tour should be on your list. However, if you need a full meal or are traveling with children, you may want to consider other options or bring extra provisions.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transfers are included from Ottawa and Gatineau, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, giving ample time to visit all three stops, enjoy tastings, and have a relaxed lunch.

Are meals included?
Yes, lunch, snacks, and tastings are included in the price. The lunch features a charcuterie board and a variety of snacks, but it’s not a full meal.

Can I bring my own food?
The tour provides lunch and snacks, but if you have special dietary needs or are very hungry, bringing extra food or snacks is a good idea.

What stops are included?
The stops are Domaine de Pontiac Village, Little Red Wagon Winery, and Cidrerie Coronation Hall Cider Mills.

Are the tastings generous?
Yes, based on reviews, the tastings are plentiful—three at the first winery, five at the second, and multiple cider options at the last stop.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While most reviews focus on adult enjoyment, the tour appears geared toward adults interested in wine, cider, and scenery, rather than families with young children.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 14 travelers, offering a more intimate experience.

How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $133.06 per person, which includes tastings, lunch, snacks, transportation, and guide services.

If you’re after a day of exploring scenic Quebec countryside, sampling excellent wines and ciders, and learning about local producers, this Pontiac Wine & Cider Tour is a smart choice. It offers a comfortable, guided experience that minimizes hassle and maximizes enjoyment. The combination of friendly guides, beautiful views, and generous tastings means you’re likely to finish the day feeling satisfied and a bit more connected to this charming region.

For those who want a relaxed, well-organized outing with a good mix of education and indulgence, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just bring your appetite (or some extra snacks), and prepare for a memorable day out in Pontiac.

Happy tasting!